Albert Cloutier

Albert Cloutier was a prominent Canadian painter, muralist, and illustrator whose work significantly contributed to the visual identity of Canada in the mid-20th century. Born in Leominster, Massachusetts in 1902, Cloutier moved with his family to Montreal in 1918, where he began his artistic training. He studied at the Art Association of Montreal and later apprenticed with several prominent commercial art studios, which shaped his distinctive blend of fine art and graphic design.

Cloutier’s early career was rooted in commercial art and illustration, including work for advertising agencies and government publications. However, his transition into the realm of public art and national expression became most notable during the 1930s and 1940s. One of his most significant commissions came in 1941 when, alongside artist Charles Comfort, he co-created the monumental mural The Development of Canada for the Canadian pavilion at the New York World's Fair. This work exemplified his talent for combining historical narrative with modern design sensibilities.

During World War II, Cloutier served as an official war artist with the Royal Canadian Air Force, documenting scenes of military life and industrial activity. His paintings from this period reflected a bold realism and helped shape public perception of Canada’s wartime experience. Post-war, he continued producing murals and illustrations, notably contributing to the decoration of public buildings, including the Quebec Pavilion at Expo 67 (though he died before its completion).

Cloutier was a member of several prestigious organizations, including the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts and the Canadian Group of Painters. His style evolved from traditional realism to a more stylized, modernist approach, often influenced by his background in graphic design. Albert Cloutier died in 1965, leaving behind a legacy that bridged fine art, design, and national identity in Canadian visual culture. Cloutier’s paintings are in the collections of the National Gallery of Canada and Canadian War Museum, in addition to any number of prestigious private collections.